breakingtravelnews.in
SpiceJet has secured the prestigious World Travel Market Global Award in recognition of its recent growth and multi-channel approach to distribution. Mayor of London Boris Johnson and World Travel Market Chairman Fiona Jeffery presented the award to SpiceJet’s CEO Sanjay Aggarwal yesterday at the WTM 30th Anniversary VIP Opening and Reception Ceremony in London, UK.
SpiceJet, despite the global economic slowdown, has shown growth in recent months. It increased its daily departures from 94 in September 2008 to 127 in September 2009, connecting 18 destinations in India. SpiceJet’s market share has increased from 7.9% in September 2008 to 13.2% in September 2009, making it the fastest growing airline in India during this period. During the first seven months of the current year, SpiceJet’s passenger traffic grew 14% compared to a 5% decline in the overall Indian domestic traffic.
Unlike many other low-fare airlines, Spicejet has a multi-channel approach to sales – 25% of bookings come directly from through its website and another 30% consumers use online travel agents. Traditional travel agencies remain the biggest channel. SpiceJet differs from other low-cost carriers by having a cargo business covering 13 cities. It has carried more than 19,000 tones of cargo since May 2008. The cargo business currently contributes more than 3% of its total revenue.
Fiona Jeffery, Chairman, WTM said, “It is refreshing to come across an airline which is using the web, call centres and travel agents to grow the business. The growth in the Indian domestic market is a positive indicator for travel as a whole.”
Sanjay Aggarwal, Chief Executive Officer, SpiceJet said, “We are delighted that our efforts towards providing safe, reliable, efficient travel for our passengers have been recognized on the world stage. One out of every 8 fliers in India chooses us for the high value service that we offer at a low fare. We thank our customers, trade partners for all their support and our 2,600 employees who have worked tirelessly to take us to this height this award is for them.”